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Memorial Day 2007….
It’s a special day for a lot of people, yes? It’s a chance to take some time off work, forget about the time clock for a day; we fire up the grill, we take little day trips with the family or we just sit around picking lint out of our belly-buttons. It’s a day of relaxation for most of us and a day of reflection for others.
For some, it’s just like the day before and the day before that. For some of us, it’s a nice warm feeling knowing that others have taken a fraction of time to remember those who have fallen, those who never returned home, and those who just served. It really is a nice feeling, being singled out as a member of our armed forces and for the sacrifices made during our service.
But tomorrow will come and with it the difficulty some of us face; the nightmares will come back in Technicolor, the realization that we came back different than when we left. Some of us come back wounded in body and soul, never to return to our pre-war service days. Some of us toil day in and day out with physical disabilities, some of us fight mental issues brought back from witnessing things that others could never in a million years imagine - the horrors of battle, the horror of seeing others taking last breaths, the pain of holding a broken body as the soul departs.
We have this special day of remembrance. But the warm feeling is fleeting. We appreciate the thoughts, but when all is said and done you’re full of shit and you can kiss our asses.
How many of you have ever been to a VA Hospital? How many of you have witnessed the treatment this appreciative country of ours hands to those who so gallantly gave of body and mind?
I’m going to go out on a limb here and say not many of you. You assume that your brave heroes are well taken care of and receive the best of care because, fk, they’re heroes! Well, that ain’t the case. You occasionally see things in the newspapers about the horrible conditions of our Veterans Hospitals [sic], yet for most it’s really a non-issue. War is hell and it’s a terrible thing to think of, why remind ourselves of it? I mean honestly, if you don’t have to dodge bullets and others do, why should you even fkng care?
You don’t. If you did you’d be up in arms about the treatment afforded our wounded veterans instead of enjoying your NASCAR races, your "That 70s Show" marathon, and thinking how you want your steak done. Maybe you’re a family member, the mother of a vet, the father, the brother, the sister, the wife, the husband, the uncle and you do care, but a lot of you don’t. The only thing you know or even care about is the cost of gasoline, a two for one pizza deal or whether or not Jesus loves you.
You, through your actions and inactions, refuse to believe something like Agent Orange could harm anyone, but you close yourself up in the bathroom with cleaning fluids and leave feeling nauseous. You, through your actions and inactions, refuse to believe that a man or woman returning from combat physically unaltered could be anything but the same as when he or she left. Your idea of war is sanitized through movies and filtered through the media; the bombs and bullets that kill and wound our soldiers, airmen, sailors and Marines are somehow magically clean and mercifully quick. You don’t see, or refuse to see, that war isn’t clean. You can’t or refuse to see that when someone dies in combat, sometimes little, if anything, is left of their physical being. You can’t or refuse to believe that someone who kills another, even in war, could have guilt.
But we fly our flags, sometimes we visit memorials, we send cards and well wishes and life goes on. We go back to work, we buy our Quarter Pounders With Cheese, supersize our fries, and we take our trips.
Those that have served go on, dealing with less than adequate medical care, forgotten with time, until the next Veterans Day or Memorial Day. But we always return; new soldiers, new airmen, new sailors and new Marines. Always there to serve in time of war, to sacrifice their lives and well-being for you - the “caring” US Citizen.
Enjoy your BBQ….
© 2007 PMF
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read more blogs!
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TiNkErGrRrRrR
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May 28 @ 4:31PM
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As usual..very good blog.. 
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Rinimer2003
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May 28 @ 4:55PM
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Super Blog full of strong thoughts...
Sara
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luvshorses644
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May 28 @ 5:02PM
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Ahhhh, PMF dear... I know only too well the scars that our heros bring back are not only physical ones that leave them with debilitating disabilities, but also mental ones. I have listened to countless stories from my dear, dear, dear friends who served in Nam about the travestities that the forces made them commit and the nightmares that return with them.
I have watched their melancholy rise up in their chests and held them when they shed tears that they didn't even try to hide.
I have had the proud honor to have many of my family give their lives for this, our taken for granted, freedom. And I have watched as some very wonderful friends who found pieces of shrapnel surfacing over different parts of their bodies that had healed around their wounds which could not be properly cleaned and watched as they waiting in silence and bravery to be matched for kidneys, livers, lungs because of the damage done by Agent Orange.. and thus they lost that last great battle.. for their very lives after the nightmares, after the travesties and left behind children and grieving widows.
I have visited VA hospitals as once very dear gentleman, Budweiser if you are up there reading, who came back without legs and wheel-chair bound because of all internal damage tried to change his bedding and lay in other positions than on his back to avoid bed sores. I held his hand and laughed when he felt like it and cried with him when he recanted his horrors.
And my brother, though he did not die in battle, joined the marines right out of high school, was ready to serve his country when some miserable sack of shit took his last breath and squashed it out like he mattered to no one. But he did matter to so many of us.
And, in the tradition of my granddad, I just returned back from placing some small flags on the graves of those nearby who died fighting for all we have. Grandpa taught me well.
Thank you to each of you living with your own physical and emotional scars because you answered the call of duty and defended our great nation because you believed in our freedom and greatness as a people. There will never be enough words to thank you.. but know I care.
And lastly, thank you PMF for your openness and genuine non-sugar coated blog.. My last kudo to you...
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Skydognc
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May 28 @ 5:04PM
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What a crock of horse dung!
I have lost family in the service, and I watch daily, my son continue to get decorated and honored in jrrotc, as he prepares to go into the marines.
Blkfoots son served his time in the marines, and would give anything to go back. He asks nothing from anyone at home, and if he were injured, the last thing he would want is pity. He served his calling, and would do it again!
I have yet to meet a marine, who will say he did it for the recognition, when he returns home.
To boldly generalize, that we enjoy our day, and tomorrow we forget......
B.S. !
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sweetsmile273
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May 28 @ 5:05PM
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bend over baby..... 
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jentoblues101
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May 28 @ 5:06PM
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Soldier's Side
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3BearMom
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May 28 @ 5:08PM
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How many of you have ever been to a VA Hospital? How many of you have witnessed the treatment this appreciative country of ours hands to those who so gallantly gave of body and mind?
I have I spent so much time with my ex father in law on these wards watching the inhumane treatment that he received from these want a be doctors, these doctors that could not get a job anywhere else.
The ones who only want people to experiment on most of the time someone to do their medical papers on.
I think it is a crying shame the way the government treats our wounded solders upon their return from these battles/wars/engagements whatever they call them.
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cricket747
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May 28 @ 5:18PM
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My son is 17 soon to be 18. Bush has the country fighting everyone. My biggest fear is that the draft will be reinstated. Our government could care less about the little people, they have their own agenda and our sons and daughters have to die for it. What irks me - and this is to be true - is how our president doesn't hesitate to start wars and use our children, when he couldn't even do National Guard without going AWOL. 
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Sheryll861
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May 28 @ 5:18PM
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Hummmm, I guess you are trying to make a statement.
LOL... YOU failed in my veiwpoint.
I imagine many have not visited the VA Hospital... I would think that most would NOT want to.. it is not pleasant. Or to drive someone to and fro, just to help them.... yikes.... takes a lot of time. Hours drive one way and then the all day or more wait. NOT pleasant, not fun.
Rufus puppy has been there..... he was supposedly NOT allowed... but he went inside anyway.... some kind of ambassador thingy........ hell, we don't know, we just went. Everyone loves Rufus PUPPY..... doctors never said a word, although against the rules.
Okay, now some asshole will tell on us.......... but if you do, someone will beat your butt. I am too tired, too broke, too in pain........ and I am not a patient. LOL....... so it will not be me or Rufus puppy....... but bet your ass, if you tell about him being allowed inside, someone will make your ass sad.
Want to comment on that????????? And I don't give a rat's ass if you do!
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blkfoot1954
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May 28 @ 5:27PM
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My uncle,who was in the Marine corp during the Viet Nam war,was there for 4 tours of duty.Yes,he made it home to his family,but he later died from complications of SKIN cancer.We did not have him home long.I miss him.I have had many in my family in the Military and I am very proud of each and every one of them.I had a cousin who had served time in Iraq,left her children with her Mom and served her time.I do spend more than One day a year thinking about the soldiers.I think many more do also,from what I have read here in the blogs.You can't help but think of them when it is on the news all the time.No,I don't think we get the full picture of what is going on there but to just generalise that people forget,I think you are wrong there.Many people remember in their own way,many familes get together on Memorial day to remember the ones they have lost to war.They go to the cemetaries to honor them.I think it is nice for many of those families to stand beside each other to help them through the greiving process they do go through when they lose a loved one.
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Skydognc
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May 28 @ 5:27PM
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alright,
I guess my community is blessed to have an awesome VA hospital. It is nearly impossible to get employed there because of the strict criteria they have. It is one of the finest medical treatment, and long term, health vcare facilities in NC. My family has dedicated many many hours to voulenteer work with the inpatients.
I do not honestly know, what other hospitals ar like. But all I can say is,
if it is truly that bad...... why post a blog, blaming everyone who may have had a nice day today,
instead of pro-active solutions!
It is a hell of alot easier to critisize, than take a pro-active step forward!
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Snappygoddess
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May 28 @ 5:33PM
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I was married to a man for 20 years that served his time in the war. The nightmares, flashbacks, paranoia and crap they put into his head made him an almost unbearable man to live with. The stories I could tell would make your hair stand on end... truly unbelievable what the government puts their men through.. both during and after their time served. He never trusted another living soul after he came home... I was the closest he had ever come to trusting anyone.
We also had a good friend that had served in the war... at times his flashbacks would get so bad, he would actually think he was in a war zone and everyone around him was the enemy. He had to be put in the VA hospital for a time and to be quiet honest, that atmosphere was worse then some of the war stories he and my late husband had shared with me.
Know what my late husband was "honored" with when his time was up and his head was so messed up that he wasn't much good for anything after that??
$365.00 a month!! That's all his government thought he was worth after giving of himself to fight for our freedom. Disgraceful!!
I fought with Social Security and the government for 20 yrs to try to get what my late husband had coming to him.. to this day.. we have never received a penny of the thousands of dollars owed to him or us.
I know exactly where my heart is at on Memorial Day.. and the bbq i eat.. the music I listen to and the pride I feel in my heart is all for my late husband and all of the others that have died fighting for our country.. and those that still do and will continue to fight for our freedom.... because that's exactly what Larry(my late husband) would have wanted me to do .
Kiss your ass?? No thanks.. have kissed enough government ass to suffice for a lifetime. 
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LGTEYES
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May 28 @ 5:44PM
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you should not critize those that you don't know. my Father served 2 tours of duty and came back, not with physical injuries, but emotional ones and often times would sit and stare quietly for the longest time. I know too well as I also have Uncles that came back from war bitter and tired looking, never to look the same, and smiles not as bright as they once were. I know that the government doesn't do what I as an individual think they should do, but maybe instead of downing the average citizen who take the time to remember, (and most remember everyday), you should be downing those who hold the seats that are capable of doing something! You yourself are sitting there complaining, and what have you done? what can any of us do to change what the government will and will not do? Form some kind of group and sign me up, I will be the first to join...and last but not least, I am a Soldier Angel, and am doing, and will do what I can!
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PullMyFinger
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May 28 @ 5:48PM
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Ahhhhhh....The American public speaks....send them off to war, allow an inadequate Veterans Administration to minister their wounds. Do nothing about it, jump to conclusions and scream patriotism on this Memorial Day. Instead of recognizing a faulty system where good men and women suffer, you immediately scream NOT ME!!!....yeah, whatever.
The American public has been doing it for years...Little Timmy returned home from war, sent to the VA Hospital and lingered, eventually succumbing to wounds suffered serving his or her country due to inadequate or non-existent medical care...
To YOU!!! 
sigh...
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RVerwolf
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May 28 @ 5:56PM
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lol...oh, man...PMF...I am with ya 100 % on what you are saying, Bro...and, man, I salute your balls in shotgunning it out there for all to see...the only problem with shotguns though...are the "innocent" that also get in the line of angry fire...
I used to do the ranting and raving in just the same way. I fought azzholes for years trying to make em see...and all it got me?...a 51 day stay in the psych ward of the Seattle VA hospital back in the late Summer of 2001...uh huh...I was there...when the towers were hit, and the Pentagon hit...and the plane crashed into that PA field...ya shoulda seen the way that all the docs and nurses were "eyeballing" Us...the Vets...and "wondering" how we were "taking" it all in...lol...all that morning it was eerily "quiet" around the wards...and the air was heavy as hell... Small groups of us would gather out in the smoking court and quietly talk or laugh amongst ourselfs as we watched the overly cautious approaches of the staff people...really was weird...
Later, that afternoon, they called us all into a meeting room...we sat in a big circle...and the docs and staff all in a bunch over by the door...finally, the head doc made an opening statement: "We've been concerned about how you guys are doing with all this?...we want to know how you are feeling about it...anyone care to comment?"
We just sat and looked at one another...a slight smile here...a gleam in an eye there...finally, I stood up and smiled...and laughed...then I said..."We've been watching and wondering about You all..What happened this morning...clear back on the otherside of this country...3000miles away...has made ya all just like little FNG's scurrying around...picture yourself and all those fears welling up inside ya,.. at ground zero...and multiply that by 365 days in a row...Now ya have a "real" idea of what we lived with...over in "our" war"...
then we all got up and left the room...
Preaching, or even ranting, to the masses just doesn't do anything except cause misunderstandings with/amongst friends...it takes something "hitting home"to each and everyone personally, before any will ever really truly "understand"...
Peace, my friend...
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sciurusniger
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May 28 @ 5:56PM
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As always, an excellent piece of writing.
As always, a few thoughtful comments.
And, as always, those who would take anything on as a personal criticism come crawling out of the woodwork, demonstrating once again that reading comprehension remains at an all-time low.
My personal thanks all veterans who gave your time, your effort, and in many cases your lives, to allow this sort of commentary on American life to occur.
Especially you, love.
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LGTEYES
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May 28 @ 5:56PM
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I noticed you did not answer, maybe you didn't see the question..what have you done to change this problem?
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Sheryll861
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May 28 @ 6:00PM
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Do nothing about WHAT?
I bet you do not spend your days at the VA Hospital, less you are getting FREE medical care........... come on get real here!!!
The VA gives excellent care. I don't say to myself..... "OH GOODY, LET'S GO TO THE VA HOSPITAL TODAY! "
Dumb ASS....... no one really wants to go visit the sick........they would rather play, be happy and not be around hurt, injured and dying folks.
Just what in the hell do you do? YEAH YOU? Not sci, not someone else, but you? And for someone OTHER THAN YOURSELF?
Been awhile since I have done the drive and spent the time, because I have not had the money for food, much less the gasoline to get there..... but then, that is my problem.
I bet my puppy Rufus and me have visited more than you!!!!!! LOL JERK
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Godless
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May 28 @ 6:01PM
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I'm a veteran, not of war, but know many who are. None of them have this attitude. You are a bitter soul who did not fight for my freedom and mean it... you fought for glory, not for me. You fought for benefits, not for me. You are not the majority of men and women I "grew up" with in the Marine Corps and you show dishonor to those who respect this day for Americans to be just that... Americans, who enjoy their freedom their own way - whether it's a backyard BBQ or a day at a veteran rally. Disgraceful.
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john33142
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May 28 @ 6:03PM
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I feel the same way..." kiss my ass"... this day means nothing.....
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Paralegal_at_Law
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May 28 @ 6:09PM
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My son is 17 soon to be 18. Bush has the country fighting everyone. My biggest fear is that the draft will be reinstated.
Spoken like a true patriot! Ya think???? Or is this a quote from an eloquent couch-potato political theoritician who thinks that her son should never invest in his citizenship by doing a tour of duty in the armed forces of the United States?
I personally do not favor the draft, as selective service is not as equitable to me as universal service is. Like Switzerland and Israel, I want EVERY YOUNG MAN AND YOUNG WOMAN to do his or her part and if not going to college, to be automatically mustered into the armed forces as enlisted personnel after graduating from High School; if going to college, to be automatically musted into the armed forces as an officer after graduation from college.
I also believe that the disabled can also serve, that being wheelchair bound does not prevent someone from operating a computer or being a radio operator, meteriologist (weatherman) air traffic controller, data entry clerk, or having your military occupation specialist code as a general paper shuffler.
American mothers would do well to see the movie "300" to observe the ethic of telling a husband or a son (or daughter) to "come home wearing your shield or being carried on it."
When I was 19 years of age I took one step forward, raised my right hand, and was sworn into the US Naval Reserve. Later, I repeated this process when I was discharged from the Naval Reserve and enlisted in the regular U.S. Navy, so I am not calling upon my fellow citizens to do more than I was willing to do myself.
Cricket747, your son BELONGS in the military for at least one tour of duty and like everyone else has a duty to perform. Freedom is not "Free" and has ben purchased by the lifeblood of America's husbands, sons, and daughters both at home and also abroad.
You yourself should be a "Blue Star Mother" that displays a flag with a blue star for each family member on active duty. Gold star flags are displayed by households whose husband, son, or daughter gave the final measure of their sacrifice confronting and battling tyranny so that others might live in the Land of Liberty unmolested by the sworn enemies of our people, and yourself, who would kill you just because you were an American.
And President Bush didnt find the world a place that loves Americans when he assumed office. For generations envy, hatred, prejudice, and political propaganda has demonized America even though America gives more foreign aid, economic development, and also disaster relief than any of the selfish, fanatic, and hate filled nations who criticise America, regardless if a Democrat or a Republican sits in the White House.
Some say that by not accepting the Pentagon and World Trade Center attacks in a stoic manner without a retaliation has made the world an even more dangerous place for America and Americans. Nope. Cowardice emboldens bullies and no response would only provoke more and greater attacks when we demonstrate weakness.
The alternative is a swift and sure response from Uncle Sam in the form of our Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, and Coast Guard searching out and destroying the enemies of the United States, without any offered quarter or regard for what corner of the world where the rats nest that needs cleaning out is at the moment situated in.
Which brings us back to your teenage son. I can think of no one as equally qualified to take one step forward, take the oath to preserve, protect, and defend the Constitution of the United States against all enemies, foreign and domestic" as is your son.
Your son is not exempt from the call of duty simply by virtue of being your child. If and when called, each of our sons must put aside being a boy and become a man when duty calls. US Army Private Eddie Slovic was someone's son, and during World War II Eddie refused to serve his country as ordered. General Eisenhower personally reviewed his court martial and the sentence of death by firing squad was carried out. The execution of Private Eddie Slovic provides the object lesson that no one is exempt from performing his or her duty as each of us bears an obligation to the greater good of collective security and to example duty, honor, and country when called upon to do so.
Abraham Lincoln wrote a personal letter to a mother who had lost five sons in the Civil War, saying: "Madam, the Adjutant General of the State of Massachusetts has informed me of the death of your five sons while in the service of their country. Any words that I could say cannot beguile you from the grief that you must surely feel for having made such a costly sacrifice at the altar of liberty. " And so, greatness occurs; whenever I see a unformed member of the armed forces of the United States, or a veteran wearing a hat that says American Legion, Veterans of Forein Wars, Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, or Coast Guard, I make it my business no matter where I am at, to shake his or her hand and thank them for the sacrifice of their service, saying "I am that grateful nation."
Madam, when a child, your son belonged to you. As a man, a portion of his life belongs to the Republic and to all of us. Chances are, he will return home a man and a veteran, qualified to buy a home using a VA mortgage or attend college on the GI Bill. However, if your child is killed in action or lost at sea, giving his or her last full measure of devotion, do not spit upon the flag or burn it. Touch the flag that graced his casket tenderly, as you would brush a stray hair from your child's eyes. Vent your anger not upon the United States, but upon the tyrants and dictators whose intrnsigent behavior made it incumbent upon the United States to contain them or seek a regime change so that the world would be a safer place for all of us.
Today is Memorial Day, and across America in every cemetery American flags flutter on veterans graves. Each is the final resting place of someone's son. Did you visit them and honor them today, or were you a couch potato expending the freedom that was purchased for your benefit by those who served when called?
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simplegal873
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May 28 @ 6:22PM
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Excellent blog and all very true. I have indeed visited patients at VA medical facilities. I am a healthcare provider. I have never worked in a VA hospital but I was absolutely appalled at conditions I witnessed in the few facilities I did visit.
I do know that the VA is attempting to improve the care provided to those who have served to protect our freedoms, but like the healthcare system in general, its all severely broken and needs a massive overhaul.
I don't profess to have all the answers, but the fix is long overdue. I also want to thank you for all your contributions of service to this country.
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PullMyFinger
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May 28 @ 6:22PM
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Lgteyes,I have 3 combat tours in Iraq, received inadequate medical care through the VA, continue to watch the VA do more harm than good due to budget cuts. I continue to fight for the rights of comrades in arms through VOTING and belonging to Veterans Groups....and I still carry the scars. I'm fine now for I have the ability to deal with my medical issues by other means, many others don't, they have to rely on the VA.
My point wasn't visiting the VA, my point was taking exception to the care given there, if you haven't been you wouldn't know. I'm sure I've seen the inside of a VA more than you Sheryl. The comprehension level of members on this site is atrocious.
And Godless, you can question my patriotism all you want. I don't display my medals. I don't keep them on the mantle, for those that do, go for it, it doesn't matter to me. Those medals are for memories gathered during a time of great comraderie and brotherhood, sometimes good and sometimes bad.
Rvrwolf, you know of what I speak of and I certainly understand.
Thank you Paralegal, that would make for an excellent blog of your own, excellent.
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Skydognc
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May 28 @ 6:23PM
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yeah......
reading comprehension......... this is so difficult to understand huh?
clarification....... nobody serving in our armed forces, is sent anywhere to serve. There is no draft! they voulenteered!
how many times, have you stated in former blogs, how you post this kind of BS crap, for your own amusement? ...................MANY times!
You are using the pain, and hurt from others, for your own, self serving amusement here, on a sacred holiday!
How many VA's have you served in?
How much time have you spent, fixing the problem?
What the Fk, have you done?
enjoy your amusement.this is nothing but trash!
and no pmf.......... KISS MY ASS!
Thats my opinion!
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Loreli
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May 28 @ 6:30PM
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I have spent a lot of time in hospitals, but not VA.
However-my cousin is a VA nurse, and not only does she feel patients don't get treated right, she filed a lawsuit because nurses that spoke out got treated horribly or fired.
I, for one, appreciate what all servicemen have been through, or will continue to go through.
to all of you.
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one_dimple
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May 28 @ 6:39PM
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Excellent blog. I believe your expressions are well grounded.
Anyone not educated to what is going on at VA hospitals across the nation can just Google VA Hospitals Deplorable.....see what you get and take time to really read the stuff!!
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sciurusniger
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May 28 @ 6:45PM
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What the Fk, have you done?
What he, and many, many others have "done", is to keep secure your right to jump on the side of the most-voiced opinion of a blog's bandwagon and demonstrate your ignorance for the whole world to see, time and time again.
Particularly when that most-voiced opinion entirely misses the point any OP is trying to make.
And for that, the majority of facilities provided to care for these veterans is abhorrent and deplorable, no matter how much smoke you want to try to blow up anyone's skirt about it.
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LGTEYES
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May 28 @ 6:48PM
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I think you missed my point..I vote too, but what can any of us actively do, what have you actively done to change the problem..to see that the veterns are treated fairly...My father served for 17 yrs, 17, and when he got sick and had to retire, I didn't see the government there to help him with any medical or finacial asst. I was, so if you have a plan, instead of stating that others only concern themselves with this day only, let me know what it is, and I will do all I can to help!!
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luvshorses644
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May 28 @ 6:52PM
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Holy crap.. I usually don't make two comments in a blog. But for the love of all fck.. what the hell is wrong with you people who are blasting PMF for pointing out that "most people" (.. he didn't name names, made a simple statement that I am sure statistics will back up if yall wanna go and read about it, ) were not aware of the deplorable conditions of the VA hospitals nor how they actually treat our returning vets who have very large medical problems.
I had an uncle who was treated like shit and died because they could not afford to fix all he had wrong with him, (and he had no other medical insurance because of his age)... a good friend (Budweiser, whom I visited and witnessed the lack of concern by the doctors when he complained about his bed sores) and the huband of one of my best friends, Barb, who died because of what Agent Orange did to his insides and the VA hospital putting him further and further down on the wait list for the organs he needed replacing.,. why? Because his health continually worsened.. duh???? Hello????? Finally, two years ago to tomorrow.. Jim lost his life while waiting for over 20 years for what began as one organ replacement and then 2 and finally three.
Such attacks for what??? Because you are feeling guilty????? I stand by my words.. PMF didn't sugar coat this issue and he doesn't need to apologize for your freedom of personal attack over a generalization he made.
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alivenwell351
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May 28 @ 6:55PM
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Though I was drafted in '67, for whatever reason I was sent to Germany. So maybe because I didn't serve in a combat situation, my views don't hold the weight of someone who did. And rightfully so.
It doesn't matter whether someone agrees with what was said in this blog or not. The fact that the writer served in combat gives him the right to any damn opinion about it, and issues relating to it, that he chooses to express. And as much as it pains me to agree, he's dead on right about the VA and it's treatment of vets.
In the 80's my dad had to go to the Dayton VA hospital often for treatment of a WWII injury. To call the level of treatment he received atrocious would be a vast understatement. One of the few things Clinton can actually hold his head high for doing was appointing Max Cleland (sp?) as head of the VA. During that time, Cleland implemented many much needed updates and changes in the way VA did things. And to Clinton's credit, he saw that what Cleland wanted done was implemented. One of the main things he did was set it up so many doctors coming in from foreign countries did a term in a VA hospital to test their competence before being allowed to practise in the private sector. Turns out most of them were damn good doctors and the quality of VA care rose dramatically during that time.
Sadly, one of the things GWB is doing that you don't hear anything about is undoing the funding for many of the improvements Cleland made. My mother has to go to the VA hospital every 3 months for treatment and evaluation for the medicine she takes and since she can't drive any distance any more, I take her, and the rate at which the level of her treatment has fallen off in the last 3-4 years is painfully obvious. And if vets don't bitch about it, regardless of how they choose to do so, who the hell will??
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Skydognc
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May 28 @ 7:00PM
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The state of affairs in this country is deplorable!
googling it, or, in the case of this blog, whining about it, or any aspect of it, with the sole purpose of attacking others, some of whom, have also served their country, and have been injured. Those who suffer and mourn, and who spend every moment of every day of their life remembering, with no hint of any pro-active solutions, is even more deplorable!
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LGTEYES
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May 28 @ 7:01PM
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and to sciurusniger...I think all comprehended this quite well. he has stated his criticism to those of us who set one day aside to remember the veterns and celebrate their life and in some cases the giving of it, to keep us free and safe. While I agree that changes need to be made, he is sadly tarnishing a day that was meant to honor these folks. It is not the general populations fault, but the government.
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Skydognc
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May 28 @ 7:12PM
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alivenwell,
I am not in any way saying, he is not right. But attacking, those who hold this day sacred, and those who have sacrificed, and have suffered, is very bad form, in my opinion!
This isnt a blog about bad conditions in VA hospitals....... Its about how bad we are because tomorrow, we ALL , will go back to work, and forget!
Horsechit !
this blog, in my opinion, in no way serves as a public awareness, or a bad situation.
so, lets all be honest......
who is going to step up to the plate here, and do something?
who, after reading this blog, and becoming "educated", is ready to take on the good fight?
every VA, is the United States, is currently under investigation, due to conditions. They had their audit here a month ago, and passed with very high ranks.
Insulting people, is not a pro-active solution. It only breeds a bigger deaf ear!
and on this one........ I have damn good reason to be sensitive!
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blkfoot1954
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May 28 @ 7:13PM
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I am not saying the conditions of VA hospitals are not deplorable,but when people make their comments to blogs and then be attacked for their comments.Shame on you...Do a blog where no one can comment...This way you won't have to say these people do not comprehend what the blog is all about.There are many ways to be able to get the conditions of the VA hospitals up to the standards they should be at.Get in touch with your congressman or woman with a petition or go visit them,have a new bill introduced.Get involved in your politics for what you want your elected senators and congressman or woman to do for all the Vets of this country.There are many Vets in this country and people who are related to Vets.Get something going that way and maybe the people of the United States can help with what you and the other Vets need medically.If you need help from people here then post it,but don't criticise...Ther are elections that are going to be coming up,now is the time to get this ball rolling and try to get better medical treatment for all Vets.!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!
JMO..stop all the bitching and get active in what you want...........
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sciurusniger
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May 28 @ 7:14PM
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It is not the general populations fault, but the government.
Must I remind you that the "government" is made up of people from the "general population"? That those who serve begin right there in your very own neighborhood, starting with small City Councils and moving right up to State representatives and Senators.
To make a distinction between those in government and the "general population" is to absolve yourself of the responsibility you carry for electing them and allowing them to continue on as they see fit, instead of representing your interests.
Which, in this case, was the fact that far too few care enough about our veterans to provide them with the help and care they need for putting their lives on the line for us.
If "those of us who set one day aside to remember...and celebrate" cared on more than just one day, things wouldn't be as bad as they've become, now would they?
And THAT is the point of this blog.
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Juliecd
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May 28 @ 7:17PM
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I was in Vietnam,Yes I was injured,yes I spent time in the hospital.Yes,conditions were and still are deplorable.Yes I suffered depression and "flashbacks" and still do. When I was there, I fought for my country and I still love my country.I will not blame our president for what the media and the extreme leftist has made him out to be.
He was a hero to you on 9/11 he has managed to keep it from happening again by keeping it oversees.
BTW I am transgendered,but Vietnam did not make me this way
I have been this way since I was a child. I suppressed my feelings for many years and I was married to a wonderful wife for 40 years until she passed away last year.
If you respond to my comments,respond to the subject matter and not what I am Julie Lynne
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Sweetheart83446
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May 28 @ 7:20PM
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*tip toes in*
I honor the veterans, who fought for me to have the right to live in this so called peaceful country; just as they fought for PMF and every other U.S citizen, to be able to have freedom of speech. Are we not disrespecting our veterans for basing PMF, when all he is doing is practicing his right for freedom of speech? Kind of seems pointless to say you respect a veteran, when you are not respecting everything they fought for.
But hey, I could be wrong.
*tip toes out*
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SunBabe
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May 28 @ 7:24PM
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Well I "get it"
I've also been to a number of VA facilities over the years and have personally seen the downslide of what they still call "care". 
Just sit in the waiting room for four hours straight waiting to be called for a scheduled appointment (not uncommon)...it's now three distinct generations of Vets hanging out there -- mostly ones who wouldn't be there if they had the option -- they'd seek their medical care elsewhere.
Then again, there's this new breed...the young ones, not "Regular Army", but Reserves or National Guard. They're welcomed as our latest symbol of patriotism, given a cursory evaluation and sent home with the words, "The check will be in the mail -- you'll probably be qualified for MedicAid. Have a nice day "..."Next..." 
Once upon a time the VA could be counted on for treatment, with long term plans and goals and in-house care to the grave, if necessary -- now it's a pill mill and lab, with only token rehab-ing, healing and repair.
It's Memorial Day. The outpatient clinics are closed, naturally. But maybe there's a nice volunteer handing out token donuts today, in the emergency waiting room (I've never seen one there, though)...even tough ol' Vets, whatever their age, may get a bit hungry while spending the proverbial four hours, suffering with physical, mental or emotional pain. Especially a day like today.
~sigh~ Sit there for four hours and listen to their stories...but I'm warning you, don't look in their eyes.........
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Skydognc
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May 28 @ 7:29PM
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Must I remind you that the "government" is made up of people from the "general population"? That those who serve begin right there in your very own neighborhood, starting with small City Councils and moving right up to State representatives and Senators
well done Sci!
alas, A comment here worth reading!
now maybe, you can understand, where I am coming from!
A blog about this, informing, those unaware, or unsure of how to be pro-active, pulls weight, and things happen!
as far as my other comments, I too, as alivenwel has correctly stated, earned my right to my feelings here, in ways, this forum shall never know about!
but I will NOT .use this day, to attack those who respect this day, for an agenda, better served elsewhere!
I never said,PMF was wrong about conditions!
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PullMyFinger
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May 28 @ 7:34PM
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I won't respond to some of the comments on here, they're doing a much better job than I could telegraphing their...well........And for that I thank you.
This will not turn into a forum of rants and insults, sorry. You can post a forum attacking my point of view if you'd like.
For those of you who consider this Blog to be aimed at you, you're more than welcome to. The American public has allowed the VA to continue on their sub-standard path of medical care. If you remember your HS class in government, I'm sure you'll remember this saying. It's from a certain battlefield in PA way back when, spoken by a man with a big stove hat.
"that we here highly resolve that these dead shall not have died in vain--that this nation, under God, shall have a new birth of freedom--and that government of the people, by the people, for the people, shall not perish from the earth."
So to one commenter...it isn't the governments fault...it's the peoples fault.
Sweetheart, thank you....but I am a Vet with 25 years of service and I certainly appreciate your kind words. Thank you.
And Sunny, the donuts are stale.
SUPER SECRET AGENT HUH?
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daisy315
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May 28 @ 7:41PM
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my father and my uncle were treated for their cancers at the VA in Durham NC.. I was appalled at the lack of care and compassion they recieved there.. and very disappointed.. I cried everytime my uncle went in.. when my father was in there, my sis never left his side.. it was an eye opening experience, to say the least.. 
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Mission_Impossible139
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May 28 @ 7:47PM
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You make a strong argument against meaningless wars.
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one_dimple
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May 28 @ 7:52PM
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I find no disrespect being displayed here.  My father was a Vet and I personally witnessed him being treated like a pin cushion with no brain. Even his anger over not being told what they were doing had no effect on the Meds....That particular time, they were only concerned about shift change. They never told him they were doing a rectal procedure...can you imagine being taken off to have to endure that and not being told beforehand they were doing it????....Honor our Vets?...Honor our Vets by being honest. My father was degraded and humiliated that day by our Governments wonderful medical system.
What better day to discuss it than on this day set aside to honor Vets? All attention is on them today, so why sugarcoat it. Most likely if any one of you were at a gathering of veterans today, you would hear this particular topic being discussed.
Freedom of speech is an active right everyday.
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tomccc
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May 28 @ 8:26PM
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I agree that many people could do more, and I applaud your work to improve the situation and circumstances of our vets. However, the spirit of Memorial Day is to appreciate the freedom and the way of life that our Vets have fought to establish and maintain through generations. Because Americans enjoy themselves, does not mean that they don't care. Most people have family or friends that are veterans, if they are not themselves. I think that if you put forth your message in a less accusatory tone, you would have more folks willing to get in your corner.
Carry on.
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hikingdoglover
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May 28 @ 9:28PM
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Like sweetheart "tiptoes in "...smells the controversy....
I get the anger PMF. But I myself have not visited a VA hospital.I have heard
on local am radio about the veterans cuts and deplorable conditions. I probably
would be enjoying the bbq's with family if I wasn't working all Memorial Day weekend. But I do believe this was not targetted at anyone specificallly. I think
what you wrote was because you needed to get these issues off your chest as you are a Veteran and have seen and felt the negative side, and in doing so, have coped with it as best you can.You have earned your right to vent and rant about it.
I do not believe you did this as pointed out by one of the replies, to gain attention for the sake of attention. If anyone cares to read between the lines, you did this out of hurt and anger that you yourself have experienced.Some of us will never know what you or anyone else who served have been through.I readily admit I am one of them.Your experiences are real and palpable in this blog, and I do think writing this is a form of letting off steam of things that you may never forget from the past. Telling you.."Thank you for serving" would mean nothing to you, but letting you know I do understand where the anger is coming from just might.
Hugs to you PMF....you know I luvs ya both!!! 
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Kentuck
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May 28 @ 9:34PM
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My friend:
It has become a sad day in America. We have a Government that is totally out of control a mad man as a so called leader. Yes, american is the same
Even thought we elect idiots to run this country, the middle class will always step forward with the men and women and money to fight a war or a battle. Yes, this country did the most horible thing to the Vietnam Viet. I know they still await their parade, their apology, and a job well done by the American people. For the women that called us killers, their children and grand children arein iraq. Yes what goes around comes around.
They have never taken care of the Viet---more worried about how much it cost. Most people don't know and some can care less.
When that wall that cracks and lets all those memories of Pet, Paul, John, Larry. Ed and others flow--nothing can be done. But be careful we have so called police that will shoot you down like a dog. So, let it go and let the people know that you gave it all and what did they give.I could go on but you know and you understand the horror of war. Just pray that God will have Mercy on your soul and your long lost friends
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PullMyFinger
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May 28 @ 9:36PM
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Tom,
I completely understand your position, but this is not only a day to remember those that have fallen and not returned, but also a day to remember those that DID return. This is a blog for them, voicing their disaproval for the VA. The VA has for years and have continued to insult many of our returning vets with shoddy medical care. You may not approve of my methods, that's ok and I understand it. As far as getting people in my corner, as of this writing, over 40 have commented, 15 kudos...so I'm thinking some do agree with my position. I didn't write the blog to garner support, I wrote the blog as a veteran to voice my opinion on a pathetic health care system for veterans. Someone has to, will you?
Those that have disagreed for the most part did in a sane and thoughtful way, others used it as a sounding board to attack, those that have never carried arms in combat and suffered the consequences so many of us do. I'm not PC and I have every right to voice my opinion on the matter as I'm living it EVERYDAY, not just yesterday or tomorrow...everyday.
Whether you think my delivery was good or bad or indifferent, at least it's in the open. The delivery method got people thinking. Many who posted here will forget about it all tomorrow anyway, it isn't part of their life.
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sciurusniger
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May 28 @ 9:40PM
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The utter disrespect shown to a veteran who not only remembers his fallen comrades on this day, but also wishes to see those, his friends, who came back in less than one piece given the respect and care they, too, deserve is pathetic.
This is the day when the opinion of any veteran deserves, if for no other reason than on the merits of their service to this country, to be heard. Funny that the opinion stated here is not only understood but also shared not only by the discerning, but by those who were truly comrades in arms and actually saw combat.
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RVerwolf
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May 28 @ 10:55PM
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Personally, I am appalled by the disrespect shown to a Brother Vet here...and a fellow Combat Vet at that...Noboby (and in particular: a fckn "non-combat "vet") has the right to call another, more experienced Vet "disrespectful", or imply that he is somehow "un American" because he speaks out on this particular day to point out a particular "reason" as to why so many Vets are still suffering as a consequences for their acts of Patriotism...irregardless of your fckn reasons for doing so.
I am truly sorry, PMF...but it's as I said...until it hits "home"...they just do not fckn understand..
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WaterLily_AS40
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May 29 @ 1:10AM
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I am also a vet, 5 yr in the Marine Corps, during Vietnam. I have visited the VA Hosp in St. Louis many times and, even tho the hospital is very old, I have always had nothing but the best of care. The doctors who specialize and have their own private practice come to our hospital a few days a week. Many have a very lucrative practice of their own and don't need to work with the VA, but do. The only time the care was bad was when I thought I had broken my wrist. I walked into the ER at 4 pm, and didn't walk out till 12:10 am the following morning. I sat and waited until 11:15pm to see a doctor and get Xrays, and believe me when I tell you, I was none too happy to have spent the better part of that day in the waiting area, twiddling my thumbs. The only thing that kept me from loosing my cool was the fact that the real, life threatening emergencies, were seen first. Understandably, most VA hospitals are in bad shape, because alot of the vets who get medical assistance, get it free. Prescription meds are $8 for a month's supply, no matter what that med is. It should be up to ALL US citizens to fight for vet's rights, as we have fought for your rights. If youhave had the opportunity to visit your local VA hospital, and the conditions are deplorable, then definately, write your congressman and complain. Let your voices be heard.
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PullMyFinger
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May 29 @ 11:01AM
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I placed blocks on the comments to this blog, it became a vehicle for conprehension challenged dumbshits to insult me and the service I gave to my country.
It's also not a discussion forum, you can find those in the forums.
I was also wished death by one of your fellow bloggers, she believes she knows the true meaning of Veterans Day/Memorial Day. Not all servicemen die on the field of battle by the way. They receive EXCELLENT care while in the MILITARY system, but are soon shuttled off into the pit of hell called the VA.
Oh well....
To those that wish my demise due to this blog, you may get your chance. I'm slated to return to Iraq in July.....so blog away good Americans.
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Tunes4u
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May 29 @ 12:47PM
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Last week, I wrote a blog about Eddie.
I have learned a lot from him.
He also knows I care about him....and what happened. I thank him in many ways all the time, besides saying thank you on Memorial Day. Love is a verb.
He served, he survived, has a life...difficult at times no doubt....especially difficult each night when he was not too drunk.... to dream..........He is carrying his Iwo Jima "pack" with quiet determination...just like the rest of his generation.
Still. To this day.
I don't think anyone here realized that blog post was meant as a tribute to the millions of service people who carry their "packs"....not just a Memorial Day "moment". I can safely assume that was the fault of the writer...me.
I was trying to say thank you. To all who serve, served, lived, died, wounded....doesn't matter.
I don't know much about Vet hospitals, and poor treatment, and so forth. In all the hours upon hours I have spent with Eddie talking about his life...he never mentioned it.
It should never be like that. I am sorry it is. I vote in every election. I will increase my awareness of this and other issues .....I will cast a more informed vote....I always try to...I will try harder... again. Each election seems more meaningless than the last. But that is the problem isn't it. We are loosing something important as a society. It's called interest
Do you realize more people are interested enough to vote for their American Idol in one single night....than there are who vote in general elections? Is it any wonder nothing is getting done about problems like the one being discussed by PMF?
Is it any wonder many social problems just keep getting worse?
How many general elections would it take to equal the number of votes in a single season of American Idol?
I mean....really.
Is it any wonder?
For the record...I have never voted for an American Idol. I have only seen it three times. I just don't care about it. Nothing against it. I guess.
I fear it will take a major incident, on our own soil, here at home, before the mentality of our brain dead society will come to it's senses, arise, and put values, morality, and honor back into our systems of government and slow the tendencies of self interest, greed and corruption.
All we really seem interested in now is to marvel at the stupidity of bad girls getting high, freaking whales in the dumb ass river, ( which are not that different of subjects actually) and firing shock jocks for being ,....umm....shock jocks. Duh.
Ah hell...put on another record. Turn on another biased news report.....turn on and tune out. Phuck it. Who cares....just as long as my kids don't listen to it.....I can take it....they can't.....Here, let me show ya how to put a block on that channel. ....just block it. Turn the channel. Whatever. Never mind having the decency to program that stuff in the first place.
Never mind DOING THE RIGHT THING FOR THE SAKE OF BEING DECENT.
If it don't shock...it don't rock.
I could go on and on.
Ted Koppel once said....
" We have actually convinced ourselves that slogans will save us.
Shoot up if you must, but use a clean needle.
Enjoy sex whenever and with whomever you wish, but use a condom.
No!
The answer is no!
" Not because it isn't cool or smart or because you might end up in jail or dying in an aids ward, but because it is wrong.....but because we have spent 5,000 years as a race of rational human beings, trying to drag ourselves out of the primeval slime by searching for truth and moral absolutes.
" In it's purest form, truth is not a polite tap on the shoulder. It is a howling reproach. What Moses brought down from Mt. Sinai were not the Ten Suggestions".
Remember when everyone had those American flags on their vehicle's back window after 9/11 ? Boy! We were really "Americans" then! Lasted all of twenty minutes.
Well....that was almost enough.....we got the flags up.....guess it's gonna take a bigger "bang" to really wake us up. Maybe it's too late?
Will anything really stop us from arguing over every little detail about every little thing?
We can't even go to the grocery store without cussing' out the guy who just cut us off.....how can a people who behaves like that, be expected to run a hospital?
We even argue on Memorial Day.
I don't know.....I honestly do not know.
Thanks though.....to those in my family who served and who are serving....those that lived....those that died....
Thanks to all those strangers....whom I will never meet, know, or see.
Thanks Eddie.....Thanks PMF.
Thank You. All.....
And I mean that.
Tunes
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redbronze
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May 29 @ 2:06PM
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PMF Huggs first of all.. I did not comment yesterday way too much anger in the whole room kind of freaky..
I understand your blog I was born and grew up in the military I served most of my childhood, my sister her whole child/teen years.. My father never went to Nam he was in the Crypto department and considered to much of a security risk to do so, he could not leave this country for 10 or so years after being kicked to the wayside (retirement) with out going through the government and getting special permission this included Canada and Mexico.. Hows that for yeah your a good Patriot..
He did however give up a portion of his retirement pay to be able to continue using the military hospitals for future medical help he already knew how bad the VA was/is when he retired. This benefit that the Government promised him and others like him has been taken away and he is forced to use outside medical help and he has to pay.. Its bull as he did his part the military force retired him and treated him like dog dung.
I am sorry folks I feel I did my time as did other's in my family.. We just did this as children. As a child of the VietNam war and having had to go to countries where my father was stationed is enough war for this kiddo... The whole thing put a bitter taste in my mouth.. I advise every kid I know to find any way but the military I have seen what it does first hand.. I applaud those guys who have served and I am proud that they survived the service and all that this entails as it is a lot and much of it difficult at best..
I have also seen the after care of these Vets, one of my friends was part of the first Gulf War and the vaccinations the government made him take rendered him sterile, he will never have kids, he has been in Iraq this tour also.. The government has only used him.. My daughter has many friends over there and we all hope they come back in some sort of semblance of sanity although we know this is a pipe dream..
PMF I think that your right on target as with many of the holidays it is buy buy buy and spend spend spend on crapola that means nothing.. Not unlike Valentines, Mother's Day and the rest all crapola as if you do not cherish the times in between then the commercial moment means nothing also...
I wish you well and I know that your life path is one that you are able to walk with grace and beauty.. Smile... Thank you for this blog it proved to be a eye opener for many...
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armybear
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May 29 @ 10:00PM
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As a vet of two wars (desert storm and Iraq), Ive seen the killing and the dying and almost didnt make it myself. When I came back almost 2 years ago I was almost all blown apart. Thank God I made it. Many didnt. I aggree with you, PULL- most people just go to the beach, BBQ and so on and dont think twice about why this day is here.
BUT---there are those who do.
Whatcha gonna do? We gotta live with it. We've seen worse, right?
God Bless!
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enigmasrook
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May 29 @ 10:20PM
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They are quite primitive. When I was in the Marine Corps, one of the base hospitals was equally as atrocious. Maybe they should privatize them...maybe with some corporate bucks our vets would be treated right.....they have done it with prisons. Or incorporate VA hospitals into University medical centers....the school that I attend has a top notch medical and research hospital......
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wandaful123
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May 29 @ 10:34PM
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I wish I had some real words to add to all this. You have my heart. I am at a loss. I feel your frustration and hurt and wish there was something I could do to ease some of it.
Hugs to you both.
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kattsmeow
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May 30 @ 12:11PM
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Sigh, why do you have to be right? I have often wondered the same thing, why is this weekend for BBQ, and drinking? Does anyone really care any more what this day is?
On that comment, does anyone know what any of the holidays are really for?
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PullMyFinger
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May 30 @ 5:53PM
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Sparechange, I appreciate your comment and I'm sure she was right, but I won't have anyone flame another on this thread, especially when I don't know who they are or had any contact with them, he left his opinion and that's that. So sorry, I won't post your comment.
And if your comment didn't make it on this blog, it's probably because your stupidity precedes you and you've been blocked. I know you hate me for christ sakes, enough....I don't care, I REALLY REALLY don't care. 
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eastham
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May 30 @ 9:16PM
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I just returned from a neighborhood Memorial Day event. I know most people perceive New York to be a very inhospitalable place, it is in fact a tapestry of small neighborhoods and in the outer boroughs, these neighborhoods can be very close knit. Every year, the neighborhood remembers the war dead -- we have a memorial service (very well attended) and we flag the graves at the Woodlawn Cemetery. But what do we do for the living?
We allowed our elected representatives to pass a bankruptcy bill in the last Congress, which allows credit card companies and mortgage companies to take advantage of servicemen and women posted abroad. Efforts by some Democratic Senators to exempt active duty service personnel from the bill were defeated along party lines.
Homelessness for Vietnam, Iraqi and Afghani war veterans is unconscionably high and the VA is 700,000 cases behind the 8-ball.
The Army may be at war, but America is at the mall.
And today, the Army announced that amputees will be redeployed to combat positions in Iraq.
I hang my head.
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oceanlover734
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May 30 @ 11:20PM
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I just read your blog after getting an email from a friend stating the chit some people are saying on your blog. I read it and honestly have to say I'm one of those people out there at the beach, cooking out etc... Did I take offence to what you wrote ......hell no I didn't because damn it your right. We as a whole do not think about it as we probably should. I have family that has served and died etc..... but do I truly know that of what you speak? No I don't nor will I ever pretend to. I just thank you as well as many others for what you've done and for writing such a thought provoking blog. Sad to me the nastiness that people choose to say. I'm glad you have Sci to be there for you as you deal with the next time. Crazy I read the blog and never once thought it was to see how many people you could piss off. I just thought of it as a way to vent and possibly open eyes for many of us. There was one part that really hit me and it was the agent orange statement You, through your actions and inactions, refuse to believe something like Agent Orange could harm anyone, but you close yourself up in the bathroom with cleaning fluids and leave feeling nauseous. I know of men that truly suffer from this and yet no one really believes it. Things that make you hmmmmm and your comparasion was so on target. Some very good comments were made so it was not without merit.
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beckyiv42000
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Jun 1 @ 3:46AM
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PMF those that are getting pissed off at you seem to be doing that probably because they see themselves in your post and cant deal with that fact.. they are the non voters the non doers the ones who could give a flying shit ... yet heaven forbid if you call them on it.. (that is MY OPINION ) its totally evident anymore how little patriotism and respect for our vets is left ... just watch a parade when the color guard passes... boy scouts and girl scouts and VETS!! are usually the only ones saluting and/or standing in respect...( I have ALWAYS stood as the vets go by and made sure my family does too ) and if we cannot even be bothered as a nation to respect them on the day set aside for that how can we expect anything more from them?? things can only change if we as a NATION do something to change it.. and its as simple as VOTING... yet so many cant even be bothered to do that KUDOS PMF to you and all those who serve I know this world would be one damn scary place without you efforts and sacrifices
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Palomino
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Jun 3 @ 11:14AM
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Excellent blog, PMF. You gave me a lot to think about. Thank you.
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RareQuestor
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Jun 3 @ 12:46PM
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What I would like to know is why this problem has never been solved when we have been throwing money at it for decades. It's not at all a new complaint. Practically every generation has bitched about quality and funding since the VA hospitals were first established. I do not doubt that the VA is underfunded, but I wonder if this is as much of an institutional problem as it is an economic problem. Is the VA simply too bureaucratic? Is it a question of a talent or too much regulation? Why does this problem continue to plague every generation of vets?
PMF, the reason why so few people really think about the cause of this holiday is simply because it is routine. I remember how exciting my first few birthday were. As the years passed, however, the excitement gradually faded until it became just another day. So it is with holidays and anything else that becomes routine. It is easy to take it for granted when it repeatedly occurs--when was the last time that you were truly thankful that your heart still beats or your lungs still function? It is human nature and no amount of lecturing or hectoring will change that. If we really wish more people to respect the sacrifices that our military forces have made for this country, we would do well to abolish Memorial Day and to hold memorials on a different date each year. We might observe Memorial Day on November 11 to commemorate the end of World War I, for example, and then observe it on April 13 the next year to commemorate the end of the Civil War. The unpredictability might actually force people to remember why it is called Memorial Day.
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gaboy54
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Jun 29 @ 6:14PM
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if you not a VET. you don't no shit -----its just a day off for people that don't know what its for they can kiss my a--
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cudahudson
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Jun 30 @ 4:15PM
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Get off the mans ass...I am a Viet Nam Vet, my son served in this stupid ass war we are in now and came home wounded. The VA hospitals suck. And I agree with him 100%. Some of you talk a good talk but your probally one of those that spit on me when I returned home and called me a child killer so take your red white and blue american ass and kiss mine
Speaking out of ignorance and a closed mind is a sad thing to see
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EarthyFunFemale
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Jul 1 @ 8:36PM
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The medical and mental healthcare for vets in this country has always been a travesty.
Hopefully the link to this petition will encourage more people to get involved:
http://www.thepetitionsite.com/takeaction/771044802
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Angel603
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Jul 6 @ 7:13PM
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I love the way you write, whatever the subject your conversational style just draws me in. However, it's hard for me to compete with the plethora of comments you receive. My initial thoughts here though - it takes a brave man to say what you just did on an American site. All power to you and keep the writing coming. Anyone who's truly experienced the insanity of war and violence must know it can't be right. Whilst we have no control over it we should support the men who serve their country. Unfortunately, most of us don't. Yet another provocative blog.
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PullMyFinger
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Jul 6 @ 10:17PM
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Ok....the above commenter Angel is an exception, anyone who gives the author a warm fuzzy gets in...
Otherwise, this blog is CLOSED
Thank you...love you all.....seriously
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